In a news release this morning, Dan Crummell, minister of Service Newfoundland and Labrador, said motorists will now be required to “move over” when approaching stopped emergency, enforcement or other designated vehicles.

“We are pleased to see the ‘move over’ legislation come into effect for the safety of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. By slowing down and moving over we can ensure that workers can perform their duties more safely and reduce the risk of anyone getting injured or worse by a vehicle,” the minister said.

This new law is in addition to the existing law that requires drivers to pull over to the side or otherwise yield the right of way when an emergency vehicle is approaching with lights and sirens activated. Motorists will now be expected to create a buffer lane by slowing down and putting as much distance as possible between their vehicles and a designated stopped vehicle.

Designated vehicles which require a wide berth under the new laws must be operating flashing red, blue or amber lights or have other traffic warning signals. Designated vehicles can include:

Recent comments

WOW ! It is 2014 People. We really do live in The Stone/Dark ages. Now I know why after living in Alberta for 27 years , why so many people make fun and laugh at me. I thought this was already a "LAW". and COMMON COURTESY". In Alberta it is. You also have to reduce your speed to 60 km. Eye Opener. NOW I understand now when home on Holidays why so many people give me the Finger/Honk Horn and cut in front of me and hit the brakes. What's the Rush.